How is Saratoga Springs?

[FirstTimer]

I'm thinking about staying there with DH and 4 year old DD. When I think of springs I think of holistic retreat, not necessary for kids . Is it close to MK and other parks? Are there activities for kids or is it geared more for adults? Planning the first trip to disney is leaving me

 

[rosamindy]

This is my first stay there, too, in Dec. 2005. I'm not sure of the whole theming, but the pool area looks great for kids! It's not close to MK, nor particularly close to any of the other theme parks, but it IS in walking distance to Downtown Disney. Not the most fantastic place for a 4 year old, but GREAT for parents! I think if I were in your circumstances, I'd go for a monorail resort, or if you like the whole villa thing, head to Wilderness Lodge, which is a cool boatride to MK. That being said, I can't wait til my stay at SSR! Enough room for my DH, DD17, DS15, mother (age withheld by request), and me!

 

[beccasmom]

Saratoga Springs is very nice. I believe they are marketing it as a resort with holistic and relaxing amenities – a spa, relaxing pool area, etc. It is not overly so, though. There were lots of kids. The grounds are quite lovely and will be even more so when the resort is completely constructed. We were there last August and I understand that some shrubs and trees were lost during the hurricanes.

SS is close to DTD. It is an easy walk – 5 minutes. It makes it very convenient to grab a quick sandwich (Earl of Sandwich) or snack (Wolfgang Puck’s). You can also take a bus to DTD, as well as a boat. The MK is not within walking distance nor is Epcot, MGM or Animal Kingdom. It will be a very large resort when completed; we stayed in Congress Park and had a great view of Fulton’s Crabhouse and the nightly fireworks.

The restaurant is small, but they offer all meals. More variety can be found at DTD. The pool areas are very nice; we congregated mostly in our smaller neighborhood pool, which overlooked the lake. We did not have an opportunity to use the spa, but I plan to do so on my next visit to WDW in June.

 

[Silos]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=759204

The above link has some nice pictures of SSR. The resort is more geared towards adults but is only a bus ride away from the parks. Very close to DD and the pool is very nice.

 

[EdTreo]

Saratoga Springs is very nice. I believe they are marketing it as a resort with holistic and relaxing amenities – a spa, relaxing pool area, etc. It is not overly so, though. There were lots of kids. The grounds are quite lovely and will be even more so when the resort is completely constructed. We were there last August and I understand that some shrubs and trees were lost during the hurricanes.

SS is close to DTD. It is an easy walk – 5 minutes. It makes it very convenient to grab a quick sandwich (Earl of Sandwich) or snack (Wolfgang Puck’s). You can also take a bus to DTD, as well as a boat. The MK is not within walking distance nor is Epcot, MGM or Animal Kingdom. It will be a very large resort when completed; we stayed in Congress Park and had a great view of Fulton’s Crabhouse and the nightly fireworks.

The restaurant is small, but they offer all meals. More variety can be found at DTD. The pool areas are very nice; we congregated mostly in our smaller neighborhood pool, which overlooked the lake. We did not have an opportunity to use the spa, but I plan to do so on my next visit to WDW in June.

I agree. It is more adult oriented and the boat ride to DTD is a plus. You gotta love those cute mini-antique chairs at the lobby for kids to watch disney movie.

 

[DrTomorrow]

All right, I'm curious, so I'll ask: Why is SSR any more adult-oriented than BWV or OKW? There's certainly as much to do - or more - for children at SSR (Community Center, arcade, pool w/Donald, bikes, etc.) than at other DVC resorts (SAB excluded). And there's a lot for younger folks to do at DTD with Mom and Dad, from all the neat semi-interactive stores, to the movies, to DQ, to boating, and more.

TIA for your answers / opinions.

 

[eddyscot]

We just stayed in a 2 BR the week before president’s week. Here is my impression of the resort.

1. Comparable to OKW in that you can drive up to building rather than park in central lot like BW and other hotel like resorts.
2. Rooms same layout as BC good quality furniture etc
3. Very quite and relaxing but other than getting to DTD you should have a car. My assumption is that since resort is not complete the bus schedule is not fully up to capacity. Example: We decided to walk to DTD one day but kids were too tired to walk back. So we took the bus -- BAD idea. We had to wait 20 min then the bus made 4 stops before getting back to SS.
4. Great rec room with new video games TV and whiteboard walls
5. So if you want a resort that is quiet this is the one for you but bring your car

 

[EdTreo]

All right, I'm curious, so I'll ask: Why is SSR any more adult-oriented than BWV or OKW? There's certainly as much to do - or more - for children at SSR (Community Center, arcade, pool w/Donald, bikes, etc.) than at other DVC resorts (SAB excluded). And there's a lot for younger folks to do at DTD with Mom and Dad, from all the neat semi-interactive stores, to the movies, to DQ, to boating, and more.

TIA for your answers / opinions.

It was not my intention to make an opinion/impression that SS is more adult oriented than the other DCV. My opinion is based on my experience on the overall accomodation provided.

 

[tjkraz]

3. Very quite and relaxing but other than getting to DTD you should have a car. My assumption is that since resort is not complete the bus schedule is not fully up to capacity. Example: We decided to walk to DTD one day but kids were too tired to walk back. So we took the bus -- BAD idea. We had to wait 20 min then the bus made 4 stops before getting back to SS.

That sounds great compared to the HOUR it took us to get back to BWV from DD. Our experience was at least 30 minutes waiting for the bus, then the same series of stops you experienced.

DD bus service has never been very good--particularly during the daylight hours. IMO, being walking distance from SSR to DD is very much a plus.

Some have reported problems with bus service to and from the theme parks. Personally, I didn't think it was noticably better or worse than any of our other experiences at Disney resorts. Sometimes you wait 2 minutes for a bus--sometimes you wait 20.

I don't think staying at SSR necessitates a car moreso than any other Disney resort--but given the choice, we do like to have a car at our disposal.

 

[Greysword]

To Dr. Tomorrow's question, I think that SSR will have many things for children, since this is Disney and families are the bread and butter, but the resort may be considered more adult than other WDW resorts for a couple reasons.

For one, SSR appears to have a more relaxing atmosphere than many other WDW resorts (including BWV and BCV). The location is out of the way from the major theme parks, thus providing a bit of peace from the normal WDW hustle and bustle of rushing and crowds. SSR has a spa to allow adults to unwind and enjoy a day to themselves being pampered and sitting still for a few hours (Although, I'm not sure if kids can get into the spa). It felt to me like the perfect place to spend an evening taking a stroll across the grounds with my wife, having an afternoon ice cream, seeing a show, and just powering down.

Secondly, it seems to be planned as centrally located next to Downtown Disney and the nightlife available (Pleasure Island), being only minutes away. DTD does have things for kids, but it seems to be mainly geared towards young and older adults. New Years Eve fireworks every night across the lake certainly gives the impression of a place for those who can stay up late if they choose

If they take the theme to the extreme, horses and a small horse racing track could be a possibility (for fun, of course, not actual money gambling). This would make a nice attraction for the older visitors.

In contrast, think of the other Disney resorts such as Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Contemporary, Boardwalk Villas which have quite a bit of foot traffic and/or may have more for younger visitors.

 

[RayJay]

I'm thinking about staying there with DH and 4 year old DD. When I think of springs I think of holistic retreat, not necessary for kids . Is it close to MK and other parks? Are there activities for kids or is it geared more for adults? Planning the first trip to disney is leaving me

If resorts were "geared" adult only, then imagine how much disney would lose if families didn't book GF or Yacht Club or BWI and yes Saratoga. These resorts have some of the best "kid oriented" stuff to do in all of Disney.

1. Why would the pools need slides. Why a pirate ship?
2. Why would they have pop jet fun areas
3. Why not just make all the pools 5 ft deep
4. Why have zero entry pools, " I guess for just handicap" and not small children.
5. Why have diapers in the stores.
6. Why sell kids fast food items.
7. Why have stuff animals and kid related stuff for sale in the stores.
8. Why have arcades.
9. Why have life jackets.

Take a look around, there's alot for kids and adults. No matter what the resort.

To me there's no such thing as adult oriented. Its Disney World.

RayJay

 

[FirstTimer]

If resorts were "geared" adult only, then imagine how much disney would lose if families didn't book GF or Yacht Club or BWI and yes Saratoga. These resorts have some of the best "kid oriented" stuff to do in all of Disney.

1. Why would the pools need slides. Why a pirate ship?
2. Why would they have pop jet fun areas
3. Why not just make all the pools 5 ft deep
4. Why have zero entry pools, " I guess for just handicap" and not small children.
5. Why have diapers in the stores.
6. Why sell kids fast food items.
7. Why have stuff animals and kid related stuff for sale in the stores.
8. Why have arcades.
9. Why have life jackets.

Take a look around, there's alot for kids and adults. No matter what the resort.

To me there's no such thing as adult oriented. Its Disney World.

RayJay

I've never been which is why I'm asking based upon what others are saying it would seem that it is geared MORE toward adults not necessarily adult geared but I'm bringing my 4 year old and I'm just trying to make sure that she's gonna have a good time, I read nothing about children programming like I did at some of the other resorts

 

[LIFERBABE]

As far as programming, SSR has a very active Community Hall. They had several activities daily when we were there in December. They also have pool activities.

It's hard to pick a resort for a 4 year because it really depends on the parents and what they like to do.

BCV is great and I think most 4 year olds would be in Heaven playing on the sand beach or in the sand shallow pool area. You can stroller over to Epcot or boat to MGM. Cute kiddie slide area located in the Pirate Ship.

BWV has a Kiddie pool (no slide for wee ones) and like transportation as BCV. Active Community Hall.

From Epcot Resorts, you will have to bus to MK or AK.

VWL has a kiddie pool and smaller slide that floaties can be used on. You can boat to MK. Bus to everywhere else. VWL does have the Cubs Den if you need childcare.

SSR you will bus to all locations, can stroller or boat to DTD. Active Community Hall and Pool activities. Kiddie slide and Donald play area that my boys loved! Very cute Victorian style playground in Congress Park.

OKW is the same as SSR but a longer walk to DTD. Not sure about Comm. Hall activities. They also have a larger slide.

I've seen the planned childrens activities at BCV and SSR, and if your 4 year old is independent they can participate in activities like tug of wars, treasure hunts, pool volleyball etc. The CH's have arts and craft activities, video games, ping pong, games, books etc. and are staffed.

 

[RayJay]

I've never been which is why I'm asking based upon what others are saying it would seem that it is geared MORE toward adults not necessarily adult geared but I'm bringing my 4 year old and I'm just trying to make sure that she's gonna have a good time, I read nothing about children programming like I did at some of the other resorts

FirstTimer

I completely understand where you are coming from, my only point is there is alot for kids to do, you will have agreat time with your 4 yr old. Yes SSR may seem adult oriented but their will be plenty of kids their p___ing off the people with no kids. LOL.

Really, she will have a great time, look at those water jets, does she like water, the pool looks great, plus they had an awesome looking playhouse. Downtown Disney is 10 minutes away, plenty to do there.

SSR looks fun, we are going try it some trip in the future

Have fun whatever you decide.

RayJay

 

[FirstTimer]

FirstTimer

I completely understand where you are coming from, my only point is there is alot for kids to do, you will have agreat time with your 4 yr old. Yes SSR may seem adult oriented but their will be plenty of kids their p___ing off the people with no kids. LOL.

Really, she will have a great time, look at those water jets, does she like water, the pool looks great, plus they had an awesome looking playhouse. Downtown Disney is 10 minutes away, plenty to do there.

SSR looks fun, we are going try it some trip in the future

Have fun whatever you decide.

RayJay

thanks Ray i'm thinking so much I think i'm over thinking everything I swear this trip planning is driving me
especially since I'm not a planner, this is so out of character for me

 

[barryb]

Hi FirstTimer,

Last week for the 6 days we were in SSR there was lots of activities for kids in community hall. They had flyers in the welcome pack outlining them. There seemed to be something to do all day if you wished!!! The main pool was busy, Donald was getting plenty of attention and kids were playing in the playground by the quiet pool.

Go and enjoy the resort. It differs very little from the other resorts as far as i'm concerned. While you're little one is off enjoying the fun, go and relax, remember it is a vacation after all!

BarryB.

 

[DrTomorrow]

Thanks for the answers, folks. While I can see that SSR might be perceived as offering more for adults (a good thing, IMHO) I just was curious if it offered less for children - which doesn't seem to be the case.

I also get a bit, um, concerned when I see SSR starting to get another undeserved reputation. It's already "The Too Big" resort (although it's comparable in size to OKW, and distances from room to pool is equaled by other DVC resorts); I'd hate to see it also labelled "The Not Friendly For Children" resort as well.

Thankfully, as people are actually staring to stay there - and not just read about it - we're getting a steady stream of "SSR - It's quite nice - not as bad as I expected" threads ....

 

[Sammie]

Disney does not offer any "Adult only" resorts. Therefore any perception that one is more adult friendly or more kid friendly is strickly personal perception.

And I agree with Dr. T, one I am not sure is based on facts and more on personal tastes and wants.

Kids can have a great time at Model 6. I would not worry about where you stay at Disney, they will love it.

Choose what you would enjoy, when they are older they can treat you to their favorite resort.

 

[EdTreo]

Disney does not offer any "Adult only" resorts. Therefore any perception that one is more adult friendly or more kid friendly is strickly personal perception.

And I agree with Dr. T, one I am not sure is based on facts and more on personal tastes and wants.

Kids can have a great time at Model 6. I would not worry about where you stay at Disney, they will love it.

Choose what you would enjoy, when they are older they can treat you to their favorite resort.

The beauty of DVC is that there are so many resort within a few miles that would cater to almost anyone.

Also I've met several 'resort hoppers' during my stay - I'm not sure the general feelings of people here about this kind of activity.

 

[lllovell]

The day we went and toured SSR (after buying sight unseen I might add ), I saw an area next to the sales center FULL of computers and games and all sorts of kiddie activities. When we walked down to take a look at the pool (which our sons did NOT understand why we were not going swimming), there were several children with some CMs in the courtyard area playing with a parachute and balls. I saw lots of children playing and having a wonderful time! Your 4 year old will be thrilled!

As for DTD being only for adults, we have never stepped in the PI end of things and my sons (3 and almost 5) request a trip there EVERY TIME we go to WDW. The love the little train. Want to eat at Rain Forest. LOVE Legoland (which is currently under renovations - can't wait to see the new play area). Always want to go to the toy store (can you imagine?) and just enjoy walking around and seeing things there. Its a GREAT break in the pace from the parks and has plenty to keep them entertained too. Face painters, balloon artist, etc. A little something for everyone. (and errrr McDonalds - which I am lucky enough to skip usually )